Weil has advised Astorg, a prominent private equity firm known for its investments in global healthcare, on its approximately $282 million take-private acquisition of Hamilton Thorne. This deal also includes the simultaneous acquisition of Cook Medical’s Reproductive Health business. Astorg plans to merge these two entities to establish a new global company focused on Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) MedTech, with a new brand identity set to launch in 2025. The financial details of the Cook Medical transaction remain undisclosed.

Hamilton Thorne is recognized as a leading provider of precision instruments, consumables, software, and services aimed at enhancing productivity and outcomes in ART, research, and cell biology. The acquisition positions Astorg to leverage Hamilton Thorne's capabilities alongside Cook Medical's offerings to create a more comprehensive service in the ART sector.

The Weil team that facilitated this transaction was led by Ramona Nee, Co-Head of U.S. Private Equity, and included a diverse group of partners and associates specializing in various legal areas. This team encompassed expertise in regulatory transactions, tax, antitrust, technology and intellectual property, privacy and cybersecurity, employment, executive compensation, real estate, and banking and finance.

The collaboration among these professionals highlights the multifaceted nature of private equity transactions, particularly in the healthcare sector, where regulatory and compliance considerations are paramount. The integration of Hamilton Thorne and Cook Medical’s Reproductive Health business is expected to enhance innovation and efficiency in ART, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers alike.

Astorg's strategic move reflects a growing trend in the private equity landscape, where firms are increasingly focused on consolidating businesses to create stronger market players. The combination of these two companies is anticipated to yield significant synergies and drive advancements in reproductive health technologies.

As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, investments like this one underscore the importance of private equity in fostering innovation and improving patient outcomes. The new entity formed from this acquisition is poised to become a leader in the ART MedTech space, addressing the rising demand for advanced reproductive solutions.

In summary, Astorg's acquisition of Hamilton Thorne and Cook Medical's Reproductive Health business marks a significant development in the private equity and healthcare sectors. With a strong legal team from Weil supporting the transaction, the newly formed company aims to enhance its offerings and establish a robust presence in the global ART market. The anticipated brand launch in 2025 will further solidify its commitment to innovation and excellence in reproductive health technologies.